UPSC Prelims 2006 Q7: Indian Polity – Federalism & Centre - State Relations
Which one of the following subjects is under the Union List in the Seventh Schedule of the
Constitution of India?
- (a) Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields
- (b) Agriculture
- (c) Fisheries
- (d) Public health
Answer: (a) Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields
Explanation
Union List subject in the Seventh Schedule
The Seventh Schedule divides legislative subjects into the Union List, State List and Concurrent List.
| Subject | List | Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields | Union List | Entry 55 |
| Agriculture | State List | Entry 14 |
| Fisheries | State List | Entry 21 |
| Public health | State List | Entry 6 |
Only the regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields is a Union subject.
Answer: (a) Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields is Entry 55 of the Union List.
- (b) Incorrect. Agriculture is a State List subject.
- (c) Incorrect. Fisheries within the State is a State List subject.
- (d) Incorrect. Public health and sanitation is a State List subject.
Key point
Regulation of labour and safety in mines and oilfields is in the Union List (Entry 55); agriculture, fisheries and public health are State subjects.
Remember
Mines and oilfields labour safety regulation: Union List, Entry 55.
Common mistakes
- Assuming agriculture is a Union subject because of national food policy.
- Not remembering that mines and oilfields regulation sits with the Centre.
- Mixing the Union, State and Concurrent lists.
Exam tip
Mines, oilfields, defence, atomic energy and foreign affairs are Union; agriculture, health, police and fisheries are State.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Seventh Schedule, Union List Entry 55
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Centre–State Relations)